The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt for at least eight foreign nationals in connection with a violent assault and sexual abuse case at Zanzou nightclub, owned by Stephen Cohen. The investigation is being spearheaded by the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Investigations (FCS) unit.
Tshwane representatives have gathered at the ZanzouClub where more police have been deployed amid protests for the nightclub’s permanent closure
The incident, which occurred in January 2023, allegedly involved five patrons who were involved in a dispute with the nightclub’s bouncers and manager over an unpaid bill. The victims, aged between 20 and 22, claim they were forced into a storeroom, physically assaulted, and subjected to severe sexual abuse. Graphic videos of the attack have surfaced online, showing victims bound and naked while enduring extreme violence.
Authorities have urged a man known as “Pablo,” a former bouncer at Zanzou who recently shared details of the incident on social media, to assist with the investigation. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola commended the swift response of Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni and his team. He assured the public that a comprehensive investigation is underway to bring those responsible to justice.
He has also assured South Africans that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the culprits to book,” the statement read.
SAPS confirmed that police are currently investigating multiple offences, including assault, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), crimen injuria, and kidnapping. Additionally, authorities stated that the actions depicted in the widely circulated video contravene the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), as the victims’ faces and bodily features were unlawfully displayed and distributed.
“The Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, has since instructed the District Commissioner of Tshwane, Major General Thine, to conduct a site visit to the establishment to source more information and evidence. A compliance inspection of the establishment will also unfold,” SAPS confirmed.
Meanwhile, the South African Youth Council (SAYC) in Tshwane has joined growing calls on social media for the nightclub to be shut down, condemning the incident as a serious violation of human rights.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have called for the arrest of the nightclub owner.
Zanzou’s management says the security officials behind the incident were fired after an internal probe.It claims that it now has a security company that adheres to the country’s laws and regulations.
According to the establishment, the former security officer, who was behind the young men’s abuse, had captured the footage in a bid to extort the business.
